How to Tell if Your Dog Has Asthma: Warning Signs Every Pet Parent Should Know

Is your furry friend coughing more than usual? Have you noticed them struggling to catch their breath after a short walk? While we often think of asthma as a human condition, our canine companions can suffer from it too. As a pet parent myself, I know how worrying it can be when your four-legged family member isn’t feeling their best.

Today, I’m gonna share everything you need to know about recognizing asthma in dogs, what causes it, and what you can do to help your pup breathe easier.

What Exactly is Asthma in Dogs?

Asthma in dogs, sometimes called canine allergic bronchitis, is an inflammatory condition that affects the airways It’s not super common in dogs (unlike in cats), but when it happens, it can be pretty serious

When a dog has asthma, their airways become inflamed and constricted in response to an allergen or irritant. This makes it harder for them to breathe normally. The condition most commonly affects young to middle-aged dogs, with smaller breeds being more susceptible than larger ones

Common Signs Your Dog Might Have Asthma

Dogs can’t tell us when they’re having trouble breathing, so it’s important to know what signs to look for. Here are the most common symptoms of asthma in dogs:

• Persistent coughing (especially during or after exercise)
• Wheezing sounds when breathing
• Increased effort to breathe
• Rapid breathing or panting
• Open-mouth breathing with heavy panting
• Coughing when pressure is applied to the throat (like when pulling on a leash)
• Loss of energy or lethargy
• Bluish colored gums (due to lack of oxygen) – this is an emergency!
• Decreased appetite

One of the most telling signs is a nonproductive cough that gets worse with exercise. If your dog consistently starts coughing when they’re playing or going for walks, that’s definitely something to pay attention to.

What Triggers Asthma in Dogs?

Understanding what causes asthma attacks can help you manage your dog’s condition better. Common triggers include:

• Environmental factors like dust, pollen, and mold
• Cigarette smoke
• Aerosol sprays and perfumes
• Household cleaning products
• Certain air fresheners
• Parasitic infections (like heartworm disease)
• Fungal infections

Sometimes, asthma symptoms might appear around the same time as other allergy symptoms, like excessive licking of paws or ears, or ear infections. This connection can be a clue for your vet when making a diagnosis.

How is Asthma Diagnosed in Dogs?

If you suspect your dog has asthma, it’s important to get them to a veterinarian for proper diagnosis. Asthma can sometimes be confused with other conditions, so professional assessment is crucial.

The diagnostic process typically includes:

1. Physical examination – Your vet will listen to your dog’s lungs and check for other signs of respiratory distress
2. Medical history review – The vet will ask about when symptoms occur and their severity
3. Chest X-rays – These can reveal changes in the lungs consistent with asthma, though some dogs with asthma may have normal X-rays
4. Ruling out other conditions – Your vet will need to exclude other causes of coughing like heart disease, heartworm, or bacterial infections

Your vet might also recommend additional tests like heartworm testing to rule out other potential causes of respiratory symptoms.

Treatment Options for Dogs with Asthma

The good news is that asthma in dogs can be managed effectively with proper treatment The main goals of treatment are to

1. Reduce exposure to allergens and triggers
2. Ease bronchoconstriction (airway tightening)
3. Decrease airway inflammation

Common treatments include:

Medications

• Corticosteroids like prednisone to reduce inflammation
• Bronchodilators to help open up the airways
• Asthma inhalers like albuterol sulfate (Ventolin or Proventil) may be prescribed in some cases

Environmental Changes

• Creating an allergen-free zone for your dog
• Regular cleaning to reduce dust and dander
• Using air purifiers with HEPA filters
• Maintaining a smoke-free environment
• Controlling humidity levels with dehumidifiers
• Proper ventilation in your home

Tips for Managing Asthma at Home

Aside from medications, there’s a lot you can do at home to improve your asthmatic dog’s quality of life:

Create an Allergen-Free Environment

• Clean regularly: Vacuum carpets and furniture frequently to remove dust and allergens
• Wash bedding weekly: Use hot water to kill dust mites
• Use air purifiers: HEPA filters can remove airborne particles
• Keep a smoke-free home: Don’t smoke around your dog, and ask visitors to smoke outside

Choose Pet-Friendly Products

• Fragrance-free products: Opt for unscented dog shampoos and conditioners
• Natural cleaning supplies: Avoid harsh chemicals that can irritate your dog’s airways
• Avoid aerosols: Skip the spray air fresheners and opt for natural alternatives

Exercise With Care

• Short, frequent walks: Instead of one long walk, try several shorter ones
• Indoor activities: When air quality is poor, stick to indoor play
• Avoid exercise in extreme temperatures: Both very hot and very cold air can trigger asthma

When to See a Vet Immediately

While some asthma symptoms can be managed at home, certain signs require immediate veterinary attention:

• Severe difficulty breathing
• Bluish gums or tongue (cyanosis)
• Extreme lethargy or collapse
• Worsening symptoms despite treatment

Remember, asthma attacks can cause permanent damage to your dog’s lungs if left untreated, so it’s always better to err on the side of caution.

Frequently Asked Questions About Canine Asthma

Can dogs use human inhalers?

Some dogs may be prescribed human medications like albuterol sulfate, but never give your dog human medication without veterinary guidance. Many human medications are toxic to dogs, and the dosage needs to be carefully calculated by a professional.

Will my dog have asthma for life?

Asthma is typically a lifelong condition, but with proper management, most dogs can live normal, active lives. The key is identifying triggers and maintaining appropriate treatment.

Does Benadryl help dogs with asthma?

Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is unlikely to benefit dogs with asthma. Corticosteroids are usually more effective for reducing airway inflammation in asthmatic dogs.

Is asthma in dogs expensive to treat?

Treatment costs vary depending on the severity of the condition and the medications required. However, many asthma medications are relatively affordable, especially compared to treating other chronic conditions. Pet insurance may help cover some of these costs.

Conclusion

If you suspect your dog has asthma, don’t panic! While it’s a serious condition, it can be managed effectively with proper veterinary care and some simple lifestyle adjustments. The most important thing is to recognize the signs early and get your furry friend the help they need.

Remember, the main symptoms to watch for are:

• Persistent coughing, especially during exercise
• Wheezing or labored breathing
• Increased respiratory rate
• Lethargy or decreased energy

By working closely with your veterinarian and creating a dog-friendly environment at home, you can help your asthmatic pup live a happy, active life. After all, they’re not just pets – they’re family, and they deserve to breathe easy!

Have you noticed any of these symptoms in your dog? Don’t wait – schedule a check-up with your vet today. Your dog’s lungs will thank you!